Another detrimental aspect of septic tank additives is that they can have a corrosive effect on your septic tank. This can cause tank leaks and can jeopardize the integrity of your plumbing, which may lead to expensive repairs. The hydrogen peroxide found in some additives may be harmful to the soil in the drainfield.Another detrimental aspect of septic tank additives is that they can have a corrosive effect on your septic tank. This can cause tank leaks and can jeopardize the integrity of your plumbing, which may lead to expensive repairs. The hydrogen peroxide found in some additives may be harmful to the soil in the
Septic drain field – Wikipedia
.
- Why septic tank additives are harmful Finally, some additives containing heavy amounts of everyday products, such as hydrogen peroxide, might not harm the bacteria in the tank but could hurt the soil in the drainfield. This would cause the purification process of wastewater in the drainfield to be less effective.
Does peroxide harm septic systems?
Will Hydrogen Peroxide harm my septic system? No – Septic systems rely upon “aerobic bacteria” which thrive in an oxygenated environment. Unlike chlorine/bleach, Hydrogen Peroxide adds oxygen instead of removing it. Hydrogen Peroxide is often manually added to septic systems and waste water systems to minimize odors.
What to put in septic tank to break down solids?
Yeast helps actively breaks down waste solids when added to your septic system. Flush ½ cup of dry baking yeast down the toilet, the first time. Add ¼ cup of instant yeast every 4 months, after the initial addition.
What chemicals should you avoid with a septic tank?
But to make it even clearer, here are the top ten household products to avoid when you have a septic tank.
- Fabric softeners.
- Latex products.
- Medicines.
- Antibacterial soap.
- Cosmetics.
- Drain cleaners.
- Bleach.
- Dishwasher and laundry detergent.
How do you ruin a septic system?
9 Ways You’re Destroying Your Septic Tank
- Flushing Paper Products.
- Pouring Grease Down the Drain.
- Using Too Much Drain Cleaner.
- Introducing Additives to Your System.
- Flushing Cat Litter.
- Neglecting to Pump Your Tank Regularly.
- Planting Trees and Shrubs on Your Drain Field.
- Washer Lint Overload.
Can you put hydrogen peroxide in a septic tank?
You May Interfere with the Drainfield The hydrogen peroxide found in some additives may be harmful to the soil in the drainfield. This can cause the drainfield to be less effective at purification. The hydrogen peroxide may also harm the bacteria found in the septic system.
Is Lysol hydrogen peroxide septic safe?
It’s safe for plumbing and septic tanks, and cleans and disinfects both above and below the water line. Angled Spout for Hard-to-Reach Areas – This bottle is easy to use in urinals and toilets of all sizes. It has an angled spout to target hard-to-reach areas, especially under the rim.
What eats waste in septic tank?
Large colonies of bacteria and enzymes in your septic tank keep the tank from backing up or overfilling. Enzymes go to work on the scum, and bacteria goes to work on the sludge. The microbes eat the waste and convert large portions of it into liquids and gases.
What eats sludge in septic tank?
One example of a homemade remedy is to flush ¼-½ a cup of instant yeast down your toilet. The yeast eats away at the sludge and helps loosen it, breaking it down so that wastewater can get through.
How do I remove sludge from my septic tank?
How to Reduce Sludge in a Septic Tank Without Pumping
- Install an aeration system with diffused air in your septic tank.
- Break up any compacted sludge.
- Add a bio-activator or microbe blend.
- Maintain the aeration system.
- Add additional Microbes as required.
How do I increase bacteria in my septic tank?
Flush a packet of brewer’s dry yeast down one toilet on the bottom floor of your house once a month. The yeast will help add “good” bacteria to your septic tank and break down waste.
How can I increase bacteria in my septic tank naturally?
Homemade Septic Tank Treatment The ingredients required for this natural solution are the following: Water, Sugar, Cornmeal, and Dry Yeast. To concoct this mixture, first start by boiling roughly a half gallon of water. Add in 2 cups of sugar. The sugar will act as the first food your bacteria will eat!
Is Dawn dish soap safe for septic systems?
One of the best know is commercials for Dawn dish soap. The ability for the cleaner to disperse oil and grease is better for cleaning, as it helps to break it up. The reason these are bad for septic systems is because if you use too much they can leach out into the environment without being properly treated.
What is the most common cause of septic system failure?
Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.
How do you know if your septic is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
Are long showers bad for septic systems?
Washing frequent, small loads of laundry or taking exceptionally long showers every day is all it takes to overload your septic system with too much water. The primary treatment tank needs time to break up solids before partly-treated water can enter the drain field.
Why Choose Peroxide
With a Hydrogen Peroxide Well Water Treatment System, you may enjoy clean, crystal clear water! In the Land O’Lakes Water Treatment peroxide (“H202”) well water treatment system, peroxide (“H202”) is a very effective oxidizing agent that is even more effective than aeration, chlorine, and potassium permanganate. Hydrogen Peroxide decomposes into oxygen and water, leaving no traces of the chemical compounds that it formerly contained behind. Our Land O’Lakes Water Treatment hydrogen peroxide system is a good alternative for treating problem well water that contains iron, iron bacteria, manganese, and/or “rotten-egg” sulfur odor “H2S” (hydrogen sulfide gas).
A combination of coliform and iron bacteria is eliminated, and tannins are oxidized.
Peroxide converts the smells of iron, manganese, and sulfur into a solid form that may be removed by the catalytic carbon in the process.
Because of its chemical composition, hydrogen peroxide has an advantage over chlorine when used as a well water disinfectant.
In the case of well water treatment, there are frequently microorganisms present that are resistant to chlorine treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several natural alternatives to conventional disinfectants, for example, that are non-toxic to the aseptic system. However, because some of the stronger natural disinfectants, such as hydrogen peroxide and thyme oil, are so powerful, their concentration will still need to be diluted with water before they can be used in a medical setting. What causes septic tank chemicals to be hazardous Finally, some additives containing high concentrations of common household chemicals, such as hydrogen peroxide, may not be harmful to the bacteria in the tank, but they may be harmful to the soil in the drainfield.
- It is also possible to inquire whether vinegar is suitable for septic systems.
- Because it is non-toxic and all-natural, it is not detrimental to your septic system.
- Heavy chemicals such as bleach, motor oil, dangerous chemicals (including those used to kill rodents and pests) and other toxic substances should never be used in your septic tank.
- What kind of cleansers are safe to use in septic tanks?
Baking soda, vinegar (both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar), Borax, OxiClean, and bleach are some of the items that may be used to clean extremely well while still being safe for the septic system.
Will hydrogen peroxide harm drain fields?
In most people’s minds, they’ve heard that a septic system is made up of two parts: the septic tank and the drain field. The septic tank is where the waste water is originally cleaned and held before being released into the environment. During the waste water treatment process, the drain field removes any remaining contaminants and performs the last treatment before releasing the water into the surrounding environment. In addition, harmful bacteria and obstinate solid sediments that may wander from the septic tank might be sent to the drain field from the septic tank.
- What about other compounds, such as hydrogen peroxide, that are toxic to humans?
- These days, you may choose from a variety of excellent drain field cleaners that are available on the market.
- There are an increasing number of chemical compounds being found and utilized; but, have you ever considered the most popular fast stain removal chemical compound that has ever been utilized on drain fields?
- Is it possible that hydrogen peroxide, which is designated as an antibacterial, will cause damage to drain fields?
- Hydrogen peroxide, often known as H2O2, is a chemical that, in its purest form, is extremely potent.
- It was also available in pharmacies, but only in a weak, diluted version consisting of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide in 97 percent water.
- There are additional health food stores that carry this chemical substance at 30-35 percent dilutions, which are stronger than what you would normally buy in a regular drug store.
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that may be used to eliminate hazardous or pathogenic microorganisms in the drain field.
It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide in its purest form since it will destroy the bacteria that is already present in the environment.
Aside from its usage in drain field cleaning, hydrogen peroxide has a variety of other applications: 1) You might gargle with hydrogen peroxide for 10 minutes every day to remove stains and bacteria from your mouth and teeth.
It’s also important to remember not to gargle with hydrogen peroxide for an extended length of time since it might harm the cells in your oral cavity and weaken the surfaces of your teeth.
3) Disinfect portions of your home using hydrogen peroxide mixed with the same amount of water; this will have no effect on the drain field.
It progressively lightens the color of the hair.
6) You might use hydrogen peroxide to combat hazardous mold growth.
You might also use it on isolated blood or wine stains as a spot treatment.
Hydrogen peroxide has the potential to be extremely beneficial in ensuring that hazardous germs do not infiltrate the surrounding environment and spread.
The infections might even make their way into the water supply that supplies water to the homes in your neighborhood, posing a serious threat to a large number of people.
In the event that you want to employ hydrogen peroxide on your drain field, consult with your septic specialist beforehand. In this post, we hope to have assisted you in understanding the age-old subject of whether hydrogen peroxide may destroy drain fields.
Septic Safe Products and the Ones to Avoid
In addition to being an ecologically favorable option for homeowners, a septic safe wastewater treatment system is sometimes the only option for cottages and rural residences that are not connected to the municipal sewage system. In addition, it implies that what you flush down the toilet is significantly more crucial, and this includes your cleansers and other household products. Continue reading to discover more about septic systems and how your cleaning products might have an impact on their operation.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE “SEPTIC SAFE”?
If you were born and reared in a city, it’s likely that you have little awareness about septic tanks and systems. Septic systems are an alternate drainage solution for rural households that do not have access to centralized sewage infrastructure. To answer all of your questions, Septic Systems are a type of drainage system. They transport waste and water from a residence to a specialized septic tank, where microorganisms are used to separate waste from the surrounding water. This type of tank makes use of perforated pipes that discharge the water into a piece of soil known as a drainage field.
As a closed-loop system, septic systems are useful in the Zero Waste Movement’s attempts to reduce waste.
WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE SEPTIC SYSTEMS
Unless you were born and raised in a city, it’s likely that you don’t know much about septic tanks. Septic systems, to answer all of your questions, are a type of alternative drainage system for rural residences that do not have access to centralized sewage infrastructure. They transport waste and water from a residence to a specialized septic tank, where bacteria are used to separate waste from water and dispose of it properly. In these tanks, water is released into a drain field through perforated pipes that are laid beneath the surface of the land.
As a closed-loop system, septic systems are useful in the Zero Waste Movement’s attempts to eliminate waste.
HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS TO AVOID
Water softeners are devices that soften water.
- Water softeners have the potential to damage the microorganisms in the septic tank, resulting in higher amounts of waste and grease being released into the drain field.
In addition to causing damage to the microorganisms in the septic tank, water softeners can cause waste and grease concentrations to rise in the drain field.
- It is possible that these pollutants will poison Septic Systems and endanger the water supply.
Using Cooking Oil
- It is possible for solidified frying fat, such as that from bacon, to build up in the tank and cause blockages in the entering and exiting pipes.
- It is possible for solidified frying fat, such as that from bacon, to build up in the tank and block both the entering and exiting pipes.
Kitty Litter is a type of litter that is used for cats.
- The majority of kitty litter is made of clay, which can block pipes.
CLEANING PRODUCTS TO AVOID
Cat litter is mostly clay-based and can block pipes, so use caution while using it.
- Antibacterial and disinfectant products are not required in most household circumstances (they were originally developed to sanitize hospitals), and they will kill beneficial bacteria that aid in the proper functioning of your septic tank.
Chlorine Bleach is a kind of disinfectant.
- A septic tank’s microorganisms might be killed or disrupted if it receives too much bleach. Additionally, it is hazardous to aquatic life. It is very likely that the bleach from your wastewater is being released directly into the groundwater if your septic tank is located close to a natural water system
- If your septic tank is located close to a natural water system, it is very likely that the bleach from your wastewater is being released directly into the groundwater through your septic system.
Drain Cleaners that are chemical in nature
- When these materials are used to unclog the drain, they destroy the microorganisms in the tank, resulting in the need for expensive repairs.
Products containing methylisothiazolinone are referred to as
- Methylisothiazolinone is a synthetic compound with antibacterial characteristics that is found in a variety of consumer items. It is most often found in cleaning products, where it serves as a synthetic preservative. Apart from the fact that it is a frequent allergy, various investigations have revealed that it is also poisonous to aquatic life.
SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS
Natural ingredients at their best.
- Please remember that your septic tank does not filter out chemicals or pollutants, and that the waste it produces is returned directly into the surrounding ecosystem. This is why it is critical to utilize natural cleansers that will not contribute to the rising quantity of synthetic chemicals that are severely harming our natural environment.
Biodegradable
- Product formulations should only contain biodegradable substances that will degrade in a natural setting, rather than persistent synthetic compounds that might accumulate in a product. Inquire as to whether your cleaning products, especially those used on a regular basis such as dishwasher detergents, are truly non-toxic and completely biodegradable.
Only items created with biodegradable substances should be used, as opposed to those made with persistent synthetic chemicals that can accumulate in the environment.
Make sure your cleaning products, even those used on a regular basis such as dishwasher detergents, are truly non-toxic and completely biodegradable by asking the right questions.
- It is critical to seek third-party certification that the items that flow through your septic system and into the environment will not have a harmful influence on the ecosystem. Examples of such organizations are Ecocert and The Environmental Working Group. By doing so, you may be confident that the items you select are truly better for the environment and are not merely making unfounded “green” claims for the sake of branding. To determine which products are best for your septic system, see the Environmental Working Group’s Healthy Cleaning Guide rating.
SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS LIST
Septic systems are quite fragile. A 1,000-gallon septic tank may be completely decontaminated with just two gallons of chlorine bleach, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. While even a tiny amount of the wrong chemicals may cause havoc on your septic system, the majority of all-natural cleansers are safe to use on your system. Natural cleaning solutions that are non-chlorine, non-ammonia, non-antibacterial, non-toxic, and biodegradable can assist you in keeping your septic system in good operating condition.
- Baking soda, borax, and salt are all ingredients in distilled white vinegar.
SEPTIC SAFE BATHROOM CLEANERS
While it’s simple to utilize all-natural cleaning solutions in the majority of places of your house, the bathroom is one area where chemical cleansers are almost always a given. A clean bathroom is crucial for your health, but cleaning your shower, tub and other bathroom surfaces does not require the use of harsh chemicals to get the desired results. These natural bathroom cleansers are highly effective and do not harm septic systems:
- The natural enzymes in white vinegar will break down soap scum and foul smells
- White vinegar is inexpensive and readily available. Baking soda – The abrasive texture of baking soda is ideal for polishing brass bathroom fittings. To get optimum disinfection power on surfaces, mix 12 cup of borax with 12 cup of water.
TOILET CLEANERS SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS
The toilet is infamous for being a filthy environment. It might be tempting to use strong cleaning agents to ensure that germs are completely destroyed. Many toilet bowl cleaners contain bleach, and others are even formulated with hydrochloric acid to remove stains from the bowl. Natural, plant-based cleansers, on the other hand, are robust enough to clean your toilet while still being the safest for the health of your septic system and the health of your family. Make sure to avoid using cleansers that include hazardous ingredients such as harmful bleach or ammonia as well as phosphates and petroleum-based compounds, which can disrupt your septic system.
Here is a list of natural toilet cleansers that are safe to use in a septic tank:
- Baking soda is a scouring agent that is both affordable and effective. Pour half of a small box of baking soda into the toilet bowl and leave it to rest for at least an hour. Immediately after mixing, flush the liquid down the toilet before cleaning it with a toilet brush. White Hard water stains in the toilet bowl may be broken down with the aid of household vinegar, which has a high acidity. Pour one cup of vinegar into the bowl and let it aside overnight. In the morning, scrape the surface. If you use baking soda along with the vinegar, you’ll find that their effects cancel each other out and become ineffectual.
SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING
Natural cleaning solutions are generally considered to be safe for use in septic systems. Take the guesswork out of selecting items for use in septic systems by using a product comparison chart. “Septic Safe” is a label that appears on products that are safe for use in septic systems. Most of these materials are natural and biodegradable, and they will appropriately degrade within the tank without interfering with the bacteria’s ability to function. Consumer items such as housekeeping and cleaning products are one of the most serious threats to septic systems.
Being environmentally conscious means using items that are safe for septic tanks and taking responsibility for what you put in the water and the soil.
Products that you use on a regular basis, such as laundry detergent and dish soap, should be handled with extra caution. Even if you have centralized sewage, use septic-safe products to keep your home and yard clean.
SEPTIC SAFE CLEANERS: FAQ
In the world of septic systems, there is contradicting information regarding what is safe and what is potentially dangerous. Here, we clarify the air on some often asked issues about septic cleaners:
1. IS VINEGAR SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS?
Vinegar is completely harmless to septic systems and will not do any damage to them. White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are wonderful cleaning tools that may be used throughout the house, including the laundry room, kitchen, bathroom, and other areas. Because it is non-toxic and 100 percent natural, vinegar of any kind is completely safe for your septic system and your household.
2. WHAT DRAIN CLEANERS ARE SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS?
Drain cleaners are famously harsh because they are required to be so. It might require a significant amount of force to break through the buildup in pipes. However, only a few drain cleaners, when used in moderation, are suitable for septic systems. Drain cleaners that foam, solidify, or crystallize can cause harm to the system and should not be utilized. To avoid causing harm to the system, use septic-safe liquid drain cleaning only when absolutely necessary. Non-chemical methods such as a pipe snake can be used to safely clear clogged drains that have become stubborn.
SAFE SEPTIC CLEANING WITH ASPENCLEAN
To ensure that all of their laundry detergents and cleaning chemicals are completely septic-safe, AspenClean employs the same natural, biodegradable, and ecologically friendly cleaning materials as they use in their professional cleaning service. It is possible to ensure that your home will receive a high-quality clean while not causing damage to your septic system by utilizing natural laundry detergents, dish soaps, as well as their house cleaning services and supplies.
Will hydrogen peroxide clean leach fields
The purpose of this article is to explore briefly how hydrogen peroxide may be used to clear leach fields. Septic system owners have a legal obligation to maintain their systems. It is one of the most important rules in maintaining a sanitary environment in which to live. No one wants to spend their time in dirt. As a result, one of the most important aspects of operating a household is the meticulous treatment and maintenance of the septic system. When it comes to managing septic systems, the owner must be aware of the system’s function as well as the advantages of performing regular inspections and maintenance.
- Today’s market is flooded with septic system additives of varying degrees of effectiveness and effectiveness.
- A typical septic system consists of a septic system as well as a drain field or leach field.
- There are some ditches that seem similar to beds and have a rectangular form, which are known as leach fields.
- In addition, it contains a 4-inch perforated pipe.
- In the landscaping industry, the cloth is often referred to as a weed barrier.
- It is only gravity that transports the treated effluent into the leach field.
- In order to keep a leach field in excellent shape, proper maintenance and treatment must be performed beginning with the drains in the house.
Additionally, the septic tank should be pumped out on a regular basis by a local septic specialist.
As soon as the septic specialist comes to inspect the septic system, it is the ideal moment to inquire about which additives are appropriate for use in cleaning the system, and specifically in cleaning the leach fields.
Hydrogen peroxide has long been recognized as a powerful cleaning agent.
When it comes into touch with blood, it begins to bubble.
When it comes to dealing with the leach field, septic additive businesses utilize hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of 35 percent.
Hydrogen peroxide this powerful and potent could only be purchased, carried, and utilized by a technician who had been properly trained.
You should budget around 1,200 USD for 25 gallons of this grade, without considering labor costs.
The use of hydrogen peroxide in the cleanup of leach fields has been proven to be successful in 98 percent of cases.
The most important thing to know about hydrogen peroxide is that, despite the fact that it is a chemical, it has no negative impact on the environment.
Bacteria are also classified as organic. When you use them, you don’t have to worry about whether or not they will do harm to anybody or anything. In fact, it would be more cost-effective since bacteria will reduce the frequency of pump outs and treatment sessions.
About The Author
This essay will assist the reader in comprehending the age-old subject of whether hydrogen peroxide can clean septic tanks or not. The traditional septic system is a very vital part of your home’s overall structure. It is a customized wastewater treatment plant that has been specifically planned, manufactured, and installed on your site to meet your needs. Due to the fact that your septic system should be able to support the amount of people living in your home, this is necessary. You should consider increasing or decreasing the size of your septic system, namely the size of your septic tank, as your home grows in size over the years.
This is the location where the initial stage of wastewater treatment takes place.
The effluent is cleared of any solid waste particles in the septic tank, so that when it is dispersed into the drain field, the only thing left to do is purify or eliminate pathogens and contaminants before it is released into the surrounding environment, which is the final step in the treatment process.
- This may be accomplished with any of the suggested septic cleaning solutions now available on the market.
- However, as with any other doubters of your generation, this question nags at you.
- Emergency stain kits and first aid kits, for example, would often contain hydrogen peroxide.
- Additionally, it is employed in wound treatment, mostly due to its antiseptic properties.
However, aside from these applications, you might want to think about using hydrogen peroxide to clean or disinfect additional components or objects around the house: One gallon of water and one pint of hydrogen peroxide may be used to clean windows, humidifiers, walls and blinds in a matter of minutes.
- It is possible to soak dentures in three percent hydrogen peroxide for thirty minutes or overnight to remove germs and discoloration. Before you put them on, make sure you completely rinse them. In order to destroy germs and prevent their proliferation, you may soak your toothbrushes in three percent hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes before using them. This is especially important if you keep all of your toothbrushes in one container.
Cleaning and disinfecting the various surfaces of your bathroom with three percent hydrogen peroxide and equal amounts of water is an efficient method (floor, sink, glass doors, and mirrors). On tough stains on fabrics such as wine and blood, dab a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on the stain and watch it fade virtually instantaneously. 5)Three percent hydrogen peroxide may be used to clean areas of the kitchen (such as the sink, the floor, and the counter), cutting boards, the refrigerator, the dishwasher, and trash cans, among other things.
- Utilize hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash, face cleanser, and hair color lightener to get the job done quickly and effectively.
- For septic tanks, there is a certain dilution factor that should be used.
- At septic tank cleaning, hydrogen peroxide is extremely efficient and safe when used in the right concentration.
- When you apply hydrogen peroxide, you will be able to eradicate septic smells.
You might purchase it in bulk and store it in huge quantities, but be sure to keep it out of the reach of youngsters and pets. We hope that this essay has assisted the reader in better understanding the age-old subject of whether hydrogen peroxide can clean septic tanks.
Septic Snooper
| The following is a four part article that was written by Joe Frisella and printed in the Rhode Island Builder’s Report which is the award-winning publication of the Rhode Island Builder’s Association.SEPTIC SYSTEMS.HOW LONG DO THEY LAST? .And what can we do to extend their lives?The cause of most failures originates from the dwelling; the source of all that ends up into the septic system. |
| I | Excessive water use due to: | |
| (a) | Leaks.Leaky toilets can cause anywhere from 50 gallons to 2000 gallons a day to access the ISDS.The septic system for a three-bedroom dwelling is designed to accommodate only 450 gallons.If your dwelling is served by a municipal water supply, I recommend stopping all sources of water use and observe the small dial on your water meter.If it is moving you have a leak.If so, it is most likely a toilet.All toilets will leak eventually.If your dwelling is served by an individual well, place food coloring in the upper tank of your toilet and if the colored water enters the bowl within a � hour you may have a serious leak. | |
| (b) | Air conditioner condensation directed to the septic system | |
| (c) | Backwash from a water purification system that in many cases have salt added to it that changes the environment in the septic system | |
| (d) | Teenagers!Need I say more! | |
| (e) | One or more babies | |
| (f) | Using the washing machine with small loads | |
| (g) | Jacuzzi overuse | |
| (h) | Leaky faucets | |
| (i) | Excessive water use can cause suspended solids and oil/grease to readily access the leach field | |
| II | Excessive use of solids | |
| (a) | Grease and oils (floatables) gaining access to the septic system can cause the leach field to fail in a short period of time. | |
| (b) | Garbage disposals add solids to the septic system that also may carry out into the leach field. | |
| (c) | Lint from washing machines can also gain access to the leach field adding to the cause of possible failure. | |
| III | Toxic waste and additives | |
| (a) | Adding caustic products that clean the drain will interfere with the natural biological digestion in the septic tank and leach field. | |
| (b) | Additives to the septic system that are recommended to keep your ISDS functioning properly actually interfere. Folks, let nature take its course. God has provided an army of microorganisms to digest the suspended solids in the effluent without any help.If for some reason your septic system appears to malfunction, contact a professional who will look into the cause of failure.Fix the cause of failure and be done with it!Anything you add to the system will interfere with the natural microorganisms that, when let alone, can do an incredible job. | |
| IV | Proper Maintenance | |
| For a conventional system, proper maintenance would be that the occupant of the dwelling is careful as to what enters the septic system and has the system inspected and pumped on a regular schedule. |
Allow me to summarize what has just occurred for those who are paying attention. Failure is caused by a combination of factors including: too much water, too much solids, and harmful additives, all of which are the fault of little old you. I hope no one notices that the truth has been revealed: you are an integral element of your septic system! So, what exactly is the question? After all of this hyperbole, I nearly forgot what I was talking about. Oh, and by the way, how long do septic systems last before failing?
The general rule of thumb is somewhere between one week and twenty years.
An ISDS will often fail after 20 years of being in operation if the procedures stated below are not taken.
Let’s start with the structure itself:
| (a) | Conserve on water use | |
| (b) | No garbage grinder disposal | |
| (c) | Don’t allow oil or grease to access the system | |
| (d) | No toxics | |
| (e) | Check for leaks, etc. | |
| (f) | Proper use of the washing machineThis is one of the biggest offenders to an ISDS along with excessive water use and solids.By looking at your dryer lint trap you can see a handful of lint is collected in the lint trap after each use.Believe it or not, more lint goes out of the washing machine than does the dryer.This lint can accumulate and clog up the pore space in the soil of the leach field and add to the cause of failure.A filter at the outlet end of the septic tank (details to follow) can assist in intercepting some of the lint but not all. |
What’s more, guess what? The venerable Septic Sleuth is back in action. Why not intercept the lint at its source—the washing machine—and eliminate it? An option is a unit known as the Septic Protector Laundry Filter, which is mounted on the wall next to the laundry machine and serves the same purpose. (In essence, this is a canister that has a mesh filter bag in it that traps lint from the washing machine’s output line before it enters the septic system) (See sketch below). Your septic system’s ability to prevent failure is greatly aided by this measure.
- Contractors and developers should consider including a Septic Protector in every residence they construct, and designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems should consider include them as an integral component of their systems’ design as a safety precaution.
- Let’s all take a moment to stand for the seventh inning stretch before we continue.
- Since around 1997, The Septic Sleuth has been including this filter into all of his ISDS creations.
- The septic tank is a holding tank for sediments, oil, and grease, with the cleared effluent being routed to the leach field once it has been clarified.
- There are suspended particles in the so-called cleared effluent, and these solids will get access to the leach field and might cause it to collapse!
- “All Knowing” is a great phrase.
- It is recommended that a filter be installed in the septic tank’s outflow tee, as seen in the diagram below, by the All Knowing Sly Old Septic Sleuth (A.K.S.O.S.S.).
This is necessary in order for this filter to be accessible, hosed down, and reset at the very least once a year.
No, the A.K.S.O.S.S.
The sleuth strongly advises that all designers of Individual Sewage Disposal Systems incorporate a septic tank filter within their plans at the earliest opportunity.
A.K.S.O.S.S., but what about the current septic systems?” says the author.
Any drain layer may get access to the outlet section of an existing septic tank and install the filter and riser for a reasonable fee.
Isn’t it true that we all require frequent examinations?
Exercising is a type of preventative maintenance. The first step in maintaining your vehicle is at home. Because of this, it is important to get your septic system examined on a regular basis. Make certain that the inspector observes everything that occurs within the house.
| Home | ||
| (a) | EmptySeptic Protector Laundry Filteras needed (every 6-7 wash loads) | |
| (b) | Conserve on water use. | |
| (c) | Do not use a garbage disposal. | |
| (d) | No toxic substances allowed into the septic system. | |
| (e) | Allow only gray water and toilet waste to enter the septic system. | |
| Septic Tank | ||
| (a) | Clean the outlet filter at a minimum of once a year. | |
| (b) | Have the septic tank pumped once in every 3 to 5 years depending on occupancy. | |
| (c) | Have the tank checked for leaks and damage. | |
| Leach Field | ||
| (a) | Provided that the ISDS was properly designed and installed and you adhere to the pearly words of wisdom so graciously given by the (A.K.S.O.S.S.) the leach field should reach its Long Term Acceptance Rate (LTAR) and remain that way without ever failing.Years ago, without the precautions taken as noted herein, most septic system failed within 20 years.However, by taking advantage of the sleuth’s suggestions, the septic system should last as long as the unit it is serving. |
Boxes for distribution (D-Box) My ISDS designs always incorporate an access riser over top of the Distribution Box (D-Box), which distributes the effluent uniformly to all laterals in the leach field, regardless of the size of the leach field. This will make it much easier to determine whether or not the leach field is operating effectively. Therefore, the American Society of Building Designers and Architects suggests that all designers, contractors, and developers consider including a riser to provide access to the D-Box.
These inspectors should conduct a yearly inspection that includes the following items:
- Analyze the amount of wastewater that is produced in the residence
- Check to see whether the septic tank needs to be pumped
- Clear out the exit filter in the septic tank
- Determine whether or not the leach field is in good shape by inspecting the D-Box. A particular set of inspection and maintenance approaches are required for innovative/alternative systems. Make recommendations for pumping, as well as for renovations and repairs
- And
If you have these yearly inspections and plan to sell your house in the future, you will have an instant history of the status and upkeep of your septic system, which might help you sell your property more quickly. Individual Sewage Disposal Systems must be inspected on a regular basis by trained inspectors in the towns of Charlestown, Narragansett, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Johnston, and Jamestown, according to town legislation. In the not-too-distant future, this tendency will almost certainly expand to all of the communities in Rhode Island.
The answer is a resounding “No!” – your system has failed.
| 1. | Have the system pumped; this may do the trick. | |
| 2. | Add some sort of cure-all that claims to remove all your concerns and bring the system back to life. | |
| 3. | Treat your system with hydrogen peroxide; this is probably the ultimate cure according to the person that treats your system. | |
| 4. | Use water-saving devices and extra filters; this is a preventative against failure, not the solution to a failed system.If you have municipal water billing records for the last three years and divide the number of days between readings into the number of gallons used during that period.This will give you the average daily water use.As a check, approximately 30 to 50 gallons per person per day is a normal, average water usage. Have a family meeting and introduce them to the All Knowing Sly Old Septic Sleuth (A.K.S.O.S.S.) by expressing the concerns of wasting precious water.Teenagers usually have a disregard for water use. | |
| 5. | The ultimate sacrifice – install a new system.The owner now goes from penny-pinching to installing a brandy new ISDS. |
‘Stop!’ exclaims the Alpha Kappa Sigma Society. LookListen! If you choose the most extreme approach and create a whole new septic system, it may fail in the same way that your current septic system did. Why? We believe this is due to the fact that you have not sought professional advice to establish the reason why your previous system failed.
| Leach Field: | |
| Here we are finally where “it” all ends up-the Leach Field.The Leach Field, if treated properly, could function without failure with a Long-Term Acceptance Rate (LTAR).This is provided that excess water and solids don’t inundate it; and you know where this comes from, the dwelling! By having a riser extend to the surface over the top of the D-Box the leach field can easily be accessed.The D-Box distributes the effluent evenly to all laterals (trenches) of the leach field.By observing the D-Box through the riser it can be determined if each lateral is receiving its designated share and if the effluent is backing up in the leach field.Now the Sleuth is going to get a little technical.Where the leach field comes in contact with the natural soils around it (sidesbottom), a biomat forms.An inordinate amount of organisms/bacteria survives in this biomat (1/2 – 1″ thick) where the effluent entering it is filtered and digested.Too much water or too many solids will upset the biological breakdown causing the mat to thicken; this interferes with the Long Term Acceptance Rate (LTAR) and may ultimately cause failure. |
Now that we’ve moved from the house to the leach field, we’re looking into the source of the problem. It goes without saying that there might be several causes of failure, and that eliminating just one of them may not be sufficient to resolve the issue. If a failure occurs, the next thing to look for is the soils and the depth to which ground water may be reached. By measuring the depth to groundwater and the permeability of the soils (using the Perc Test), you may compare the results to determine if the leach field is of sufficient size and that the bottom of the leach field is at least 3 feet above the water table (DEM regulation).
- With ever-increasing infinite wisdom, the Sleuth has decided that the microbes in the Oh-so-wonderful biomat will consume the remaining solids, after which they will turn on themselves, reducing the size of the biomat until it is no longer visible.
- However, I must admit that I have had a great deal of success in rescuing failing leach fields.
- I have had great success in letting a leach field to rest for around five months, enabling it to rejuvenate itself to practically new condition.
- This is how it works: “I’ve got you now, Sleuth,” says the detective (my title is dwindling).
- You’ve made a valid point, I believe.
- In the same vein, the new leach field (In-Drains) does not contain a biomat, allowing wastewater to travel through the interface between the leach field and the soils around it without experiencing significant delay.
So it was that the three bears were reunited for the rest of their lives. In order to provide some further information to the thrifty homeowner who is concerned about additional expenditures, please listen to this:
- In order to design an ISDS to replace a failed ISDS, you do not need the services of an Engineer, a Land Surveyor, or a Class II or III Designer
- Instead, you can hire the services of a Class I Drain Layer Designer, who may be less expensive because he or she is not held to the same standards as the Class II and Class III Designers. You will not be needed to have a Class II or III Designer watch the construction of the Class I Drain Layer/Designer, and this will save you time and money. The Class I Designers take a close look at their own work in progress. You may save up to $2,000-$4,000, which you could put towards the system’s purchase price. “There, I’m relieved to have gotten that out in the open.”
Hydrogen Peroxide Treatment of Septic Systems and Its Negative Effects on Shallow Ground Water
, Thomas J. Bicki & Associates, Inc. The University of Illinois’ Department of Agronomy is home to Thomas J. Bicki, who is an assistant professor in the department (N407 Turner Hall, 1102 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana, IL 61801). He graduated with a Ph.D. from Iowa State University in 1981. Director of a number of natural resources research and extension programs in Illinois, Bicki’s responsibilities include the oversight of geology, soils, water resources, on-site sewage disposal, agricultural practices, and ground water pollution research and extension programs.
Look for further articles written by this author.
Abstract
In order to monitor nitrate migration to ground water following the administration of H 2 O 2 to an overloaded soil absorption system, soil-solution samplers and shallow ground water monitoring wells were used in conjunction with each other. Prior to treatment with H 2 O 2, the nitrate-nitrogen concentrations in soil water and shallow ground water ranged from 29 to 67 mg/L and 9 to 22 mg/L, respectively, in soil water and shallow ground water. One week after the application of H 2 O 2, mean nitrate-nitrogen concentrations in soil water and ground water rose and ranged from 67 to 115 mg/L and 23 to 37 mg/L, respectively, in soil water and ground water.
The H 2 O 2treatment failed to restore the infiltration ability of a well-structured soil after it was exposed to high temperatures.
Household Products That Will Ruin Your Septic Tank!
Many people who have septic tanks are unaware of what they may and cannot flush down their toilets or down their sinks. It may come as a surprise to find just how delicate septic tanks are, and how many common household goods can cause harm to and/or block your septic tank if you don’t know what you’re doing. By keeping these things out from your drains, you can maintain your septic tank in good shape and avoid costly septic repairs down the road. Chemical Cleaners are a type of cleaning agent that uses chemicals to remove dirt and grime.
You may disturb the bacteria cycle in your septic tank by pouring anti-bacterial cleansers like bleach down your drains and down your toilets.
Additives Several septic tank additives make the promise that they will enhance the amount of bacteria in your septic system.
The Environmental Protection Agency and the American Ground Water Trust, on the other hand, warn that chemical additions may cause more harm than good to your tank.
Using Bath Oils Oil floats to the top of your septic tank, where it congeals and hardens to produce a layer of scum on the surface.
It has the ability to withstand bacterial activity and embed in the solid waste layer.
Grease from the kitchen Grease of any kind contributes to the buildup of scum in your septic tank.
Unless otherwise instructed, you should avoid dumping oil down your sinks.
In addition, dryer papers might jam the entrance baffle.
Over time, the clay will clog your pipes and cause your septic tank to fail completely.
Products Made of Latex The majority of latex-based products are not biodegradable.
If the outlet tee is missing, the latex may clog the drain field on its way out of your septic tank, causing it to back up and choke the tank.
Paints and oils are two types of media.
In order to maintain your soil and groundwater free of diseases, you must have this bacterium on hand.
Prescription medications and chemotherapy medications Even after passing through a patient’s digestive system, powerful medications may still retain active ingredients that are harmful to them.
If possible, avoid allowing drug-contaminated faeces to enter your home’s septic tank.
Some prescription medications have the potential to be harmful to the environment.
Chemicals for Automatic Toilet Cleaning Systems Automatic toilet cleaners release an excessive amount of anti-bacterial chemicals into your septic tank, causing it to overflow.
Instead, choose toilet cleansers that are suitable for septic systems.
Even minute amounts of string, on the other hand, can clog and ruin pump impellers.
In a period of time, it will encircle a pump and cause harm to your septic tank’s mechanical components.
Your tank is only capable of holding a specific amount of domestic water; it cannot accommodate big volumes of water from a pool or roof drain.
Don’t use your sinks or toilets as garbage cans; this is against the law.
Put your trash in the garbage to prevent having to pay extra in pump-out fees.
Young children, on the other hand, may be unable to comprehend how toilets function.
Rather than degrading, the clothing are likely to block your septic tank.
Butts for Cigarettes Cigarette filters have the potential to choke the tank.
Refer to your septic tank owner’s handbook or consult a professional for a comprehensive list of dangerous items.
If possible, avoid flushing non-biodegradable goods down the toilet or down the drain. You will save money on costly repairs and you will extend the life of your tank by taking these precautions.
